Pirates' Paul Skenes: An All-Star Pitcher with Electric Stuff and a Complete Arsenal

Pittsburgh Pirates phenom Paul Skenes has impressed with his electric fastball and complete repertoire, earning him a starting spot in the MLB All-Star Game. Fellow All-Stars Aaron Judge and Juan Soto sing his praises.

The baseball world has been abuzz with excitement ever since Paul Skenes made his Major League debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates back in May. The young pitcher has quickly established himself as one of the most promising arms in the game, and he has now been selected to start the All-Star Game for the National League.

Skenes's electric fastball, which can reach triple digits on the radar gun, has been the talk of the town. However, as Aaron Judge, the reigning American League MVP, points out, Skenes is much more than just a power arm.

Pirates' Paul Skenes: An All-Star Pitcher with Electric Stuff and a Complete Arsenal

"You can talk about the velocity of his pitches and what he does, but the guy's a pitcher, man," Judge said. "He can work all three, four, five of his pitches. Throw it to every part of the zone any count. He's a complete pitcher."

Skenes's complete arsenal has been on full display since he was called up to the majors. In 11 starts, he has posted a 1.90 ERA, striking out 73 batters in just 55.1 innings pitched.

Pirates' Paul Skenes: An All-Star Pitcher with Electric Stuff and a Complete Arsenal

While Judge is impressed with Skenes's fastball, he believes that the pitcher's ability to locate his other pitches is what makes him so special.

"He can throw his changeup for a strike any time he wants," Judge said. "His slider is also really good. He can throw it in any count, and it's tough to hit because it has so much movement."

Pirates' Paul Skenes: An All-Star Pitcher with Electric Stuff and a Complete Arsenal

Skenes's impressive performance has not gone unnoticed by other All-Stars. Juan Soto, the Washington Nationals' star outfielder, echoed Judge's praise for the young pitcher.

"He's incredible," Soto said. "It's incredible to see a guy like that put in the performances he's been doing. He's a young guy just coming in, coming up, showing his stuff and everything. It's pretty electric stuff, so we'll see how it goes."

While there is a chance that Judge will not face Skenes in the All-Star Game due to the short outings that pitchers typically make, Soto is determined to ensure that his teammate gets a chance to bat against the Pirates' phenom.

"I'll make sure he faces him," Soto said.

Skenes's selection to the All-Star Game is a testament to his remarkable talent and the bright future that lies ahead of him. If he can stay healthy, there is no doubt that Skenes will be a mainstay in the All-Star Game for many years to come.